Latics count cost of striker shortage

OLDHAM boss Dave Penney said striker Pawel Abbott may be out for weeks rather than days following Athletic’s FA Cup first round exit on Saturday. Having told the media 48 hours before the game that the Pole would be available for selection, Penney subsequently admitted Abbott had undergone a hernia operation in Germany two days previously.

OLDHAM boss Dave Penney said striker Pawel Abbott may be out for weeks rather than days following Athletic’s FA Cup first round exit on Saturday.

Having told the media 48 hours before the game that the Pole would be available for selection, Penney subsequently admitted Abbott had undergone a hernia operation in Germany two days previously.

His absence told as Deane Smalley, Chris Taylor and Keigan Parker all had turns up front, while Ryan Brooke showed some nice touches as a late replacement.

Although Nick Blackman will be available for Saturday’s trip to Gillingham, another loan acquisition may be on Penney’s mind.

He said: "We’ll have to have a sit down and see how long Pav will be out. If we need to, we’ll try and get someone in. Pav had his operation on Tuesday but there’s been a complication. Initially we were looking at between seven and 21 days, now it’s four to six weeks. Pav’s been great for us because he’s got his goals and his link-up play has been good, but we’ll have to change the system to try and get goals from other areas. Chris Taylor and Deane Smalley are gradually getting fitter and stronger, and they’ll both benefit from playing games."

As well as Abbott’s absence, Penney was also left to rue errors at both ends of the pitch last Saturday.

Goals from Jonathan Howson and Mike Grella gave Leeds victory at a rainswept Boundary Park on Saturday night.

Both sides struggled to create much in the way of genuine chances, but it was the visitors who capitalised on the few opportunities that occurred.

"You have to give Leeds some credit," said Penney. "They were resolute and tough to break down. I’m not sure how many shots our keeper’s had to save, but they’re a big, strong and well organised side. Mistakes in our box cost us goals. Whatever level you play at, if you don’t take your chances then you won’t win games."